Graves
Age-worthy red blends but equally prized for their dry, cellarable white blends, Graves and Pessac-Léognan, sometimes overshadowed by others, are not to be missed.
With an ancient winemaking tradition, in Graves you can find tannic and structured Cabernet and Merlot blends with plum, herbal, and spice notes.
However, they also produce lovely dry white wines too which are blends of Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc with citrus, apple, and mango notes and zesty acidity. The prices are lower than more famous regions, so it's easier to find a bargain!
Graves Facts and Classification Information
- Size: 8650 acres (3500 ha)
- Grape varieties: 43% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Sémillon, 9% Sauvignon Blanc
- Established: 1937
- Major soils: Mostly gravel with sand, clay, and limestone.
- Pessac-Léognan was part of Graves until 1987 when it became its own appellation.
- The Crus Classés de Graves was established in 1953 however all of the 14 wineries that are part of that classification are actually found in Pessac-Léognan (which was part of Graves until 1987), and not Graves as we know it today.
